The Johnnies Blog

Welcome to Johnnies Blog—your essential guide to college. From making friends and navigating New York City, to building a career-ready degree, our student stories and expert advice bring the college experience to life. Whether you’re exploring majors, planning to apply, or seeking support for a balanced and purposeful college journey, we’re here to inform, inspire, and connect you every step of the way.
St. John's College Student Packing for the Dorms

College Room Essentials: A First-Year Packing Guide

Your first year of college is an exciting time to make new friends, create unforgettable memories, and experience newfound independence. If you are going to live on campus, knowing what to bring is essential before you can fully enjoy all the fun! As a rising senior who has experienced residence life over the past few years, I would like to share some of my college residence room essentials to help you better prepare.

St. John's University Student
Madison Coombs
St. John's Study Abroad Student Acayla Wray

Self-Discovery Abroad: Insights from a St. John’s Student’s Journey

Have you ever longed for a life-changing experience that challenges you to step outside your comfort zone and reveals a deeper understanding of yourself? Studying abroad has the power to be that pivotal moment of self-discovery.

In this Q&A, we hear from Acayla Wray, a St. John’s University education major and aspiring teacher who spent a life-changing semester in Rome, Italy. Now a senior, she reflects on her study abroad journey, the challenges she faced that forced her to grow, and the unexpected passions she discovered.

Study abroad in Rome student headshot

Global Adventures and Personal Growth: My Unforgettable Journey Studying Abroad

Maxie Hom, a senior at St. John’s University, shares her impactful journey studying abroad through the Global Passport program. She offers firsthand accounts of her global adventures, including personal development, cultural immersion, and the unique opportunities that studying abroad offers.

Study abroad in Rome student headshot
Maxie Hom ’25SJC
St. John's Student Pursuing a Major in Game Development

Best Majors for Undecided Students

Are you struggling to choose a major that aligns with your interests and career goals? At St. John’s University, we offer a wide range of undergraduate degree programs tailored to various passions and ambitions. Whether you’re interested in technology, community service, or risk management, we have a major that will be the perfect fit for you. Here are some of the best majors for undecided students you can pursue and find the right path for your future.

St. John's Alum Headshot, Duane Shippey

Building a Finance Career: Lessons from a VP at BNY Mellon

Are you interested in a finance career where you can help people achieve financial empowerment? In this Q&A session, you get to know Duane Shippey '97A, a St. John’s University alumnus. As the current Vice President (VP) of Client Services at BNY Mellon, Mr. Shippey shares his journey of building a career in finance, the skills he has developed, and the challenges he has faced and overcome.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Homeland Security Lab

Homeland Security & Criminal Justice Leadership: Master Dual Program

In today’s dynamic landscape, a career in homeland security and criminal justice leadership is a responsibility—a dedication to safeguarding communities and upholding equity. A cornerstone of meeting this responsibility lies in an understanding of both homeland security and criminal justice leadership, the discipline in which encompasses unique insights and challenges that demand specialized knowledge and skills. Homeland security demands a keen understanding of cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and emergency preparedness, while criminal justice leadership focuses on enforcing laws and ensuring equitable justice for all.

St. John's Alumna and Mental Health Advocate, Priscilla Agyeman

Prioritizing Your Mental Health in the Workplace: Q&A with Priscilla O. Agyeman ’16C

Balancing mental health and work responsibilities can be a challenging task. However, it is crucial to prioritize your well-being and seek support when needed to achieve personal growth and career success.
 
During this Q&A session, we speak with Priscilla O. Agyeman ’16C, a St. John’s alumna and mental health advocate. She shares her personal experience with mental health issues and the strategies she uses to navigate mental health in the workplace successfully. She also discusses the mental health resources she offers through her company, Saddie Baddies®.
 

Young female professional
Toni Critelli